The 2015 World Cup finalists, who were beaten 3-2 in India in October before the series sweep in Australia, are rebuilding in the wake of a string of retirements.

“There’s six players in this side from the squad of 15 who featured for us in the World Cup last year, so it’s important we give the new players the opportunity to feel comfortable on the international stage,” Larsen added.

“That takes time. You can’t replace 900 ODI caps and the leadership that comes with that experience overnight, but it’s an exciting new group and we’re learning a lot with each match that is played.

“Although the side is rebuilding it’s very important that we do see improvements during the home summer.”

The 13-man squad will go into a training camp in Christchurch on Dec. 23 ahead of the start of the series at Hagley Oval on Dec. 26.